Ever heard of The Land of The Thunder Dragon? Speak of Bhutan and it reminds me of a religious country similar to that of Thailand.  A unique country with population standing approximately at 700,000 and home to Mahayana Buddism, Bhutan exudes a blend of mystery and ancient traditions. Situated near China and India, Bhutan has a size of about 38,000 square kilometers and is famed for her mountainous terrain and pristine ecology.

This is the place where the famous Hong Kong celebrity couple Tony Leung and Carina Lau had their wedding vows amidst the backdrop of religious monuments in 2008. It is romantic to get married in an exotic place and had wedding pictures taken in traditional costumes.

The most distinctive architecture of this spiritual country must be the countless Dzongs (fortresses) and the monasteries where religion played an important role. Bhutanese are known to be very pious people.

The many Dzongs are characterised by towering walls that surround a complex of courtyards, temples, administrative offices, and monks’ accommodation, the most beautiful one being the Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness) which is a 3-hour drive from the capital of Thimphu.

Punakha Dzong (Photo credit:Amanderson)

Another famous landmark is the beautiful and sacred Taktsang Monastery (meaning Tiger’s Nest), which is built precariously on a cliff. Revered by the locals, it is a treasure trove of their culture and religion. Surprising, it is also very well preserved, thanks to their government efforts in limiting the number of tourists entering their country.

Taktsang Monastery (Photo credit: Eduardo Mustad)

The weekend market in Thimphu is a worthy stop where you can jostle with locals for foodstuffs. This weekend market is the biggest in Bhutan where you need at least an hour to walk through the extensive area of fresh produce and handicraft imports from neighbouring countries.

Since 72% of the country is forested area, it is no wonder that Bhutan is a popular place for trekking and camping. Be it a short or strenuous hike, one will always be rewarded with the pleasant discovery of beautiful lakes and gorges, small chortens (religious structures) and enchanting Bhutanese villages. In Short, this kingdom is like an adventure itself.

Up northwards lies Devonport, which is the third largest city in Tasmania. Visit the Maritime Museum to learn more about Tasmania maritime history or a trip to the Imaginarium Science Centre for hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Other cultural facilities include Devonport Regional Gallery for their art collections and Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre for the history and culture of the aboriginals.

Devonport is one excellent base for Cradle Mountain. Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Claire National Park is part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area. The Cradle Mountain is an epitome of a wild landscape with its jagged contours, cascading rivers, dense rainforests and diverse ecology. Over here, you can indulge in activities like picnicking, bushwalking, wildlife watching and fishing.

Photo credit: jasonpang88

Another ideal place for romance and adventure is Launceston, Tasmania’s second largest city in the North. Well known for its award-winning restaurants, street cafes, museums and galleries, it is also a paradise for wine and gourmet lovers. Visit Launceston Tamar Valley, reputed for their rieslings and pinots to explore the cool climate vineyards and dine in winery restaurants whose menus featured the best of Tasmania’s fresh produce.

Just a 15 min walk from Launceston city centre is the Cataract Gorge Reserve. This “wilderness in the city” is one of Australia most enticing urban parks. Over here, there are hiking trails, lookouts, abseiling, hang gliding and rock climbing activities. Try the Launceston Basin Chairlift to take in panoramic views of the gorge from above.

Want to take a break and breathe the world’s freshest air? Yes, look no further than Tasmania, an island located in the southern part of Australia for it is an ideal place to see Australian wildlife in their natural environment including the famous Tasmanian Devil. From spectacular coastlines to rugged mountains, Tasmania boasts of a wide network of national parks and World Heritage Sites. It is truly a nature paradise with unparalleled landscapes.

Hobart, capital of Tasmania, situated at the foot of Mount Wellington, is in close proximity to the natural surroundings. Visit Hobart’s popular market, Salamanca Market every Saturday for fresh fruits, produce, arts and crafts and other odds and ends. At Hobart’s business district, browse the rich historical and cultural collections at The Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery to learn more about Tasmania’s origins.

At the east coast of Tasmania, approximately 3 hour drive from Hobart, lies Freycinet National Park, from where you will get to Wineglass Bay, one of world’s 10 best beaches. Visitors from all over the world are attracted to this national park’s magnificent coastal views as well as its rich diversity of flora and fauna. Walks leading to the lookouts above Wineglass Bay bring spectacular and breathtaking views of the coastline.

Photo credit:Camerashy75

Strahan is a picturesque fishing village found at the west side of Tasmania. There are many beautiful seaside holiday homes and waterfront cottages over here and this is the perfect place to explore Tasmania’ wilderness. Take a river cruise down the mighty Gordon River to explore the pristine rainforests listed on Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness, see the Huon Pine and Sarah Island convict settlements and learn how the convicts used to log pine for shipbuilding. Or else, go on a railway adventure and take a trip back in time to explore the country’s rail heritage as you traverse through dense forests, cross countless bridges, pass rushing rivers and climb over 200 metres.

Photo credit: Ahtko

Umbria, the lesser known region (compared to her illustrious neighbor Tuscany) in central Italy boasts a beautiful green landscape of mountains, valleys, woods and water resources, ideal for a peaceful retreat.  Located on the east of Tuscany and north of Rome, it is also known as the “green heart of Italy” and an attractive destination for nature lovers.

The capital city of Perugia is an enchanting place of art and culture where churches, historical monuments and museums are aplenty, bearing witness to its rich heritage. Visit Palazzo Dei Priori, an impressive gothic building constructed between 13^th -15^th century at the heart of the city, which today houses the City Administration and National Gallery of Umbria where you find Italian art masterpieces dating all the way back to the middle ages including works of Fra Angelico and Piero Della Francesca.

Fontana Maggiore or Major Fountain, built by Nicola Pisano and his son Giovanni, was one of the most beautiful medieval fountains of the 13^th Century. Located at the main square, it was a symbol representing freedom from past Roman domination as well as a celebration for the completion of aqueducts that brought water to the city. Other notable places include Basilica of San Pietro, Basilica of San Domenico and Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

If you are passionate about chocolates, Perugia is the place for it has another name: Chocolate City, where the annual Eurochocolate Festival was held (in October) and had attracted countless chocoholics from all over Europe.

Assisi is a holy city with a picturesque backdrop of nature. Rich in religious heritage, you can find many churches, monasteries, monuments and especially the renowned Basilica of St Francis, which is built to honour the saint St. Francis. Constructed circa 1200 and a UNESCO world Heritage Site, it is one of the most important places of Christian pilgrimage in Italy. This building (made up of two churches, the Lower Basilica and the Upper Basilica) has two distinctive architectural styles: Romanesque for the Lower Basilica, influenced by the spirit of poverty preached by the Franciscan order and a sophisticated gothic style for the Upper Basilica.

Basilica of St Francis (Photo credit:Francesca)

Prime destinations in Assisi include the Rocca Maggiore (a fortress rebuilt in 1367 from a ruined castle), Basilica of St. Claire (dedicated to a disciple of St Francis), Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, Temple of Minerva (a well preserved Roman temple) and Mount Subasio National Park (a nature reserve).

Maldives is one of my dream destinations with many beautiful tropical islands, white beaches, golden sunshine and sparkling emerald waters, over a backdrop of azure blue sky.  To say it is paradise is some sort of understatement. Located in the Indian Ocean, Maldives consists of about 1190 islands spread over 26 atolls (ring-shaped coral island enclosing lagoon). Of these, roughly 90 are resort islands and 200 are inhabited.

Bandos Island Resort Spa is one romantic place to stay. They have accommodation ranging from standard rooms to luxurious water villas to cater to different clientele and also a wedding package that comes with a traditional island ceremony on an island beach, sunset boat ride, cultural costumes and romantic private dinner.

Bandos Island Resort-Maldives (Photosource: Nattu)

Having great diversity and abundance in marine life, diving and snorkeling activities are not to be missed because Maldives has one of the best diving sites in the world and this is the primary reason why most tourists return.  Never mind if you don’t know how to dive because dive schools are aplenty at the resorts and courses are conducted daily throughout the year.  Snorkeling is another way to explore the underwater wonders as there are many shallow reefs which are just a few strokes away from the beach.

Maldives is one of the great places for whale and dolphin watch.  Going on a whale watching safari trip or dolphin excursions to watch wild dolphins playing in their natural habitat allows you to take break from those active sports. Fishing enthusiasts will be happy to know night fishing is a popular activity here.  At sunset, the boat is anchored at a reef as lines with hooks are thrown into the water. You can then chitchat and relax under the night sky or fall into dreamland as the boat rocks gently …

Fishing (Photosource: Nattu)

Nantou is a mountainous region located in central Taiwan. It is the only county without a coastline. Dubbed as “a landscape of lakes and mountains”, some of the mountain peaks are more than 3000 metres high with many inland ponds and lakes flowing throughout.

No doubt, Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nantou. One of the 8 wonders in Taiwan, it is also the largest lake in Taiwan, a world renowned scenic spot. Apparently, one side of the lake is round (like the sun) and the other side is crescent (like the moon), hence its name.

Source: Allen Hsu

The surrounding mountains complement the beauty of Sun Moon Lake.  The countless peaks bathing in mist or sunlight when reflected on the clear emerald waters at different seasons and different times exudes an aura of mystery and enchantment. In the middle of the lake is Lalu Island, a sacred place for the Shao tribe which is off-limits to visitors. No worries, as visitors can find out more about this tribe at surrounding areas near the lake.

In Nantou, Sitou Forest Recreation Park is like a natural classroom where you can bird watch and checkout the diverse vegetation and wildlife.  The lush greenery consists of a variety of coniferous trees, bamboo, gingko and cedars. Not far away is Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Park (which is a pun for Shanlinxi, meaning fir, forest and rivers) where you find beautiful flowers blooming the whole year round. One of the most beautiful sights here is the Qinglong (Green Dragon) Waterfall which plunges 115 metres, a mesmerizing sight for travelers. Overnight accommodation is available at the recreation park.

Do not forget to immerse yourself in the wild greenery in Cingjing farm. With an average temp of  20 degrees celsius throughout the year, fresh air and bountiful farm produce such as peaches, plums and highland veggies are found here. Lying on the grass plain, enjoying the azure sky and verdant mountains, watching the sheep idling and grazing is an excellent way to take troubles off your mind.

Nantou Cingjing Farm (Source: Jose Alegria)

Other than nature, there are temples, hiking trails, hot springs and interesting towns in neighbouring areas to explore. The number of scenic spots in Nantou is endless. Once here, you have no choice but to slow down, relax and enjoy Mother Nature.

Nantou Cingjing Farm (Source: Jose Alegria)

I just checked out this website called Animoto that allows people to create their own videos for free. Cool. Enjoy my videos below!

Planning on what to do is a challenge especially if you are going to whisk your partner away for a surprise romantic holiday. This means you got to do all the planning and preparations on your own. Being creative and having new ideas on your romantic-things-to-do list are all you need to jumpstart that relationship and bring it to greater heights.

There are some 10 useful tips on what you can do to be romantic:

1.      Take a long stroll, hand in hand with your partner along the beach or park or any place of nature, watching sunset or sunrise. Racing with each other will be fun.

2.      Prepare food and go for a picnic.

3.      Pick a bunch of wild flowers and gave her a kiss. Do a scrap book together on flowers.

4.      Find a private place to cuddle, stargaze and chit chat.

5.      Surprise her with a pair of tickets to her favourite band/play/sports event.

6.      Take turns to massage each other, giving back rubs are good for alleviating stress.

7.      Serenade a song in the presence of a live band during a restaurant candlelight dinner. Get someone to video your performance and upload it on her Facebook and yours. That will be the hot topic among your friends the next few days.

8.      Write or read her a love poetry everyday during the holiday. (Note: Reading poetry to a man may freak him out or he will just laugh it off)

9.      Dancing together to some romantic music next to a crackling fire, whispering sweet nothings.

10.  Skinny dipping in the sea/ under a waterfall together at night.

With these romantic options, there is one that is bound to work. If you cannot be romantic all the time, demonstrate your love by doing small little things for your partner regularly, like taking out the trash, making coffee or helping buy his or her favourite magazine. It will help you build and maintain a long lasting relationship with that special someone.

Located in central Europe, Vienna or the capital of Austria is a well known historical and cultural centre. In fact, its city centre is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you do not have any place in mind, this is an ideal destination for you as the city offers countless wonderful attractions which are not to be missed. Known as a vibrant city for its arts, music and architecture, Vienna never fails to charm and impress her visitors.

When you are in Vienna, get started by exploring the rich history of the city. The buildings and its architecture are a feast for the eyes, representing different styles and periods in a mixture of Baroque, Art Nouveau and modern styles, reflecting the rich heritage of this former imperial city once ruled by the Hapsburg for about seven centuries.

Get to know more about Hapsburg’s court life by exploring the museums. Some of the most important and famous museums include Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts), Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury) and The Belvedere where you find world class exhibits and treasures, such as the extensive ancient art collections of the Hapsburg, antiquities, jewelries, and priceless valuables. You could spend up to several days in the museums if you go through everything in detail.

Another place to visit is Stephansdom or St Stephen’s Cathedral. Built in 1147, it is considered one of the main gothic buildings in Europe. Join a guided tour to explore the chapels and catacombs and get fascinated by the cathedral’s history. Try climbing their North and South towers (estimated 445 feet) for good views of the downtown area.

A must-see attraction for tourists is the Schloss Schonbrunn (which is on UNESCO World Heritage List). Known as the “Versailles of the Austrian Empire”, it was the Hapsburgs summer palace in the 17^th century and one of the most important cultural monuments in Vienna today.

Schloss Schonbrunn (Photo source: Brigitta)

Schonbrunn grounds (Photo source: Brigitta)

Visit the many state rooms in the palace and check out the Mirror Room where Mozart gives his first concert performance in front of Empress Maria Theresa at age of six. Just in front of the palace, there is the Easter Market where you will  find traditional arts and crafts and culinary delights.

Schonbrunn Garden (Photo source: Brigitta)

To go sightseeing in the city, just hop onto the Vienna Ring Tram and you can drop off at Vienna’s State Opera to catch an opera or even indulge in the original ‘Sachertorte’ (sweet chocolate cake), one of Viennese most famous culinary specialties in Hotel Sacher nearby.

Listen to the world renowned Vienna Boy’s Choir (one of the best and oldest boys’ choir in the world) during Sunday mass at Hofburg’s chapel and get mesmerised by their heavenly voices. Established by Emperor Maxmillian I in 1498, they have been a symbol of Vienna for the last five centuries.

If time permits, make your way to the Zentralfriedhof or Central Cemetery, the largest burial ground in Vienna. This is the resting place of 3.3 million people, many of whom are famous poets, politicians and composers such as Beethoven, Schubert and Karl Lueger.

To sum up, Vienna is an incredible place to go. If arts or history is your cup of tea, you shall not be disappointed.

Boracay is one of the top tourist destinations for beach goers. Located in the Philippines, this idyllic tropical island offers pristine beaches alongside sparkling seas. There are several beaches in Boracay, primarily the White Beach followed by others such as Puka Beach and Bulabog Beach.

Photo source: Chester Lim

The White Beach was known as the ‘finest beach in Asia’ for its bright and powdery white sand as compared to other beaches in the region. Along this 4km stretch, you will find lodging houses, resorts, chalets, hotels and eateries (ranging from native food stalls to gourmet restaurants) and other beachfront establishments catering to tourists’ needs.

Things to do

It is a recreational haven with many facilities that cater to different types of activities. Strolling along the beach and lazing under the sun are for those who want it slow and easy. You can catch a boat ride and go beach hopping, enjoying scenic views along the coast and exploring different coves and beaches around the island.

Exploring one of the attractions, the Bat Cave (located on the north east coast of Yapak), where it is home to giant fruit bats, can be done by hiring local guides to bring you into the cave. Otherwise, you can choose to wait at White Beach during sunset to catch the view of hundreds of bats making their nocturnal flight.

If you are looking for active sports, try windsurfing, sailboating and kite boarding.  Other than adrenaline, you will also have a picturesque view of the lagoon where vibrant colours of sails and kites can be seen during peak season. Bulabog beach is popular with kitesurfers during peak season from December to March when the wind speed can go as high as 30 knots.

Photo source: Chester Lim

A perfect haven for aqua sports where snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and boating activities are aplenty, water sports’ enthusiasts will not be disappointed. Land activities such as mountain biking and trekking allow you to discover some of the scenic cliffs and hidden coves with remote beaches.

In fact, the fun doesn’t stop when the day ends. After sunset, Boracay is transformed into an exciting night of feasting, partying and dancing where many restaurants, pubs and bars are opened into the wee hours of the morning.

With its simplistic and breathtaking beauty, Boracay is truly an island paradise for holiday makers, vacationers and sun worshippers all over the world.